By Faran Fagen
The annual Relay For Life event is drawing near, with the main event scheduled for Saturday, April 1 at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.
This year’s goal is to host over 100 cancer survivors and their caregivers, who will be treated to a special Survivors Lap and a complimentary dinner.
“After sunset, we light Luminaria bags to remember those we have lost, to celebrate cancer survivors, and to show those affected by cancer that they are not alone,” said Megan Mila, Survivor Program Co-Chair.
The event, organized by the American Cancer Society (ACS) Relay For Life of Parkland, Coral Springs, Margate, and Coconut Creek, aims to honor and remember loved ones while raising awareness and funds to fight cancer.
The 2023 fundraising goal is $150,000, with $23,000 already raised as of January 27. The funds raised will be used locally to support cancer patients by providing rides to their appointments. Last year’s event raised $120,000.
“It’s never been easier to raise money for Relay For Life and help fund the future,” said Amanda Fletcher, Survivor Program Co-Chair. “Every dollar raised fuels the American Cancer Society’s lifesaving mission. The fight against cancer needs you now more than ever.”
The theme of this year’s event is “Hollywood,” with more than 40 teams and 500 participants expected to participate in the fundraising efforts.
Mila said the event is an opportunity to “remember those we have lost, to celebrate cancer survivors, and to show those affected by cancer that they are not alone.”
To get involved, participants can sign up for an existing team or start a new team at relayforlife.org/parklandfl. Donations can also be made on the website.
The American Cancer Society relies on donations to fund research, provide education, and advocate for the needs of cancer patients and their families. The Relay for Life event is the largest peer-to-peer fundraising event globally, with 2.5 million participants uniting to fight cancer.
Upcoming events include the upcoming Zumbathon on March 3 and the Swing Fore A Cure golf tournament on April 22.
To learn more about Relay For Life and form a team or register as an individual or cancer survivor, visit Relayforlife.org/parklandfl.
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